Safford to Fountain Hills: A Scenic Arizona Road Trip Guide

The route from Safford, AZ to Fountain Hills, AZ spans roughly 220 miles along US-70 and AZ-87, passing through the Sonoran Desert's eastern edge. Historically, this corridor was part of the Old Spanish Trail, used by early explorers and traders.

AZ-87 is well-maintained, but watch for wildlife, especially deer and javalina, near dawn and dusk. For families, the Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior offers an easy, educational walk. Pets are welcome on leash at most rest areas, but not in park buildings.

For fatigue management, plan stops every 2 hours: Globe is a good midpoint with fast food and parks. Hidden off-route spots include the Coolidge Dam on the San Carlos Lake, worth a detour for fishing and picnicking.

Fuel stations are sparse, especially between Globe and Fountain Hills, so plan to fill up in Safford or Globe. Driving on AZ-87 includes a mountain pass reaching 5,000 feet, which can be affected by winter weather.

• Expect road construction on US-70 near Fort Thomas.
• Restrooms available at rest areas near Superior and at gas stations in Globe.

Major highways: US-70 west to Globe, then AZ-188 south to AZ-87. For alternate views, take AZ-77 south to Winkelman and then AZ-177.

The drive transitions from agricultural valleys near Safford to pine forests near Payson, then to saguaro-studded desert as you approach Fountain Hills. Near Kearny, you'll pass through copper mining country, with open-pit mines visible from the highway.

Local commerce thrives in small towns: in Globe, the Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park offers ancient Salado ruins. In Fountain Hills, the iconic fountain erupts every hour, and the local art scene is vibrant. The Tonto National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short detour off US-70 and features cliff dwellings.